The Labour Party (LP) has leveled serious accusations against the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and former spokesperson Kenneth Okonkwo for allegedly spreading falsehoods and attempting to undermine the party. In a statement issued by the LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, the party claimed that Okonkwo and NLC’s Acting Chairman, Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, are promoting a narrative that the party under Barrister Julius Abure is collaborating with the All Progressives Congress (APC). This, they argue, is an attempt to distract from the leadership of the party, especially following a recent court ruling that reaffirmed Abure’s position as national chairman.
Ifoh stressed that the Labour Party remains a critical opposition to the APC, asserting that the NLC has failed to adequately represent Nigerian workers, who he claims are currently oppressed under the APC-led government. He emphasized that under Abure’s leadership, the Labour Party has achieved significant milestones, including a majority of votes in the 2023 presidential election and a substantial number of elected officials across various levels of government.
The party’s statement accused the NLC of engaging in behavior that has hindered the LP’s progress, such as allegedly using thugs to invade party offices and attempting to set up a rival leadership. Ifoh suggested that it is, in fact, the NLC that is acting in the interest of the current government rather than supporting the Labour Party’s objectives.
He further urged the NLC to focus on its primary responsibilities and respect the legal boundaries governing political parties and labor organizations in Nigeria. In response to Okonkwo, Ifoh dismissed him as having an unstable character and recommended that he focus on his acting career rather than politics.
In conclusion, Ifoh called on Labour Party members to disregard the negative statements from the NLC and Okonkwo, reiterating the party’s commitment to its autonomy and dedication to its members.